Prams 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

What to Look For in Push Chairs and Prams

The world of push chairs and prams can seem confusing. Prams have a flat seat that is specifically designed to be used by infants and babies.

Some prams include a bassinet or carrycot for newborns. Some can be converted to a pushchair when the baby is older.

If you plan to travel by public transport or fold your pushchair regularly opt for a lightweight and compact pushchair.

Comfort

Your pushchair will probably be utilized more often than your nappies and bottles. As such, it's important to ensure your child is comfortable during every trip by selecting an option with plenty of padding and an upholstered seat that can be adjusted for the height of your child.

Many buggies, prams and pushchairs have a blanket to keep your child warm. They can be popped in the wash and are available in a variety of designs and colours to fit your personal style.

A pram is specifically designed for newborn babies up to around six months old, when they're still at the stage where they need to lay flat, usually with a bassinet or carrycot attached to the frame. Most prams have the option of either 'parent facing' and 'world facing', meaning you can decide whether to have your baby face you to bond or allow them to explore the sights and sounds around them. Some prams can be converted to pushchairs, such as the iCandy Peach 7 - a luxurious double stroller-sized pushchair that can be used from birth (with carrycot) and up to 25kg (15kg on elevators).

It is crucial to keep in mind that babies less than six months old should not be carried in a stroller that doesn't fully recline. A crouching position can impact their breathing as they inhale more than normal. This could lead to breathing problems in the long run.

A pushchair is a seat that folds into a compact space. It's designed for older babies and toddlers. These are often constructed of a stronger material than prams. There are also models where you can change the direction the seat is facing so that your child can look at you for comfort or away from you to explore the world.

Safety

It is important to ensure that your child is safe in a pushchair or pram. You should never put your child in a pram or pushchair specifically designed for their size and age. This will help them feel safe and secure, and also prevent accidents. When purchasing a second-hand stroller or pushchair it is essential to conduct a visual safety check. This will ensure that the item is in good working order and isn't damaged in any way that could be dangerous to your baby.

When you are choosing the right pram or pushchair pick one that comes with a safety harness with quick and easy clips. Check that the buckles are not loose and that the straps fit snugly around your baby's waist. Also, look for a broad base, which will give more stability than narrow-based models.

Be careful not to overload your pram or pushchair with items. This could cause the pushchair to topple over and your baby may be thrown out. Don't put anything that could harm your baby in the basket, including drinks, snacks, or toys.

Be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer on how to clean your pushchair or pram. If you are cleaning the fabric or the hood of your pram, be sure to dry it outside thoroughly. This will prevent the growth of mould or mildew.

It's a great idea to clean the removable footmuff that comes with your pushchair or pram before you return to it in winter. This can be done by taking off the fabric, washing it in cool water using soap and letting it dry outside. It's also recommended to scrub any dirt or mud off the wheels and axles.

Experts recommend that babies lay flat in a pushchair or pram double as soon as they can. This will help their development and reduce the risk of back problems as they get older.

Manufacturers and retailers have a duty under the General Product Safety Regulations 2005 to provide products that are safe to use in normal or reasonably foreseeable use. This is the case for new prams and pushchairs travel systems as well as second-hand ones.

Style

Parents may want the most efficient set-up of wheels they can find However, many parents need a pram that is as stylish as their child. There are a variety of high-end prams and pushchairs that combine high-end engineering with stylish designs that are both attractive and practical.

The first thing to think about when selecting a pushchair or pram is the seat padding and adjustable options. Babies can be messy and so having a pushchair that's easy to clean is crucial. This is especially important when you intend to take long walks through rough terrain or over dirt, gravel and cobbles. Look for a pushchair with removable seats and recline mechanisms that can be washed by machine. Check that the fabric is also breathable, which will help keep your baby dry and comfortable.

You should also think about the direction your baby will face in their pushchair. Most 'from birth' pushchairs allow you to change the seat between parent facing (facing towards the parent to provide reassurance and bonding) or facing the world so that they can discover the world around them. Some models have this option too but it's not a necessity for all models and can be an option that is only available as an extra.

Combination prams are also referred to as 3-in-1 prams. They are popular with families since they can accommodate bassinet baskets on the same frame. They are designed to be used right from birth, and are suitable for infants from six months old to.

A travel system is an option to a combined pram, as it permits you to fit car seats onto the frame, often by using adaptors. They are ideal for infants and toddlers from birth to three years old. They can be less expensive than buying separate products.

Twin prams or pushchairs are excellent option for twins or siblings of the same age who both need to be transported in comfort and safety. They come in a variety of styles and equipped with a single or double car seat.

Stores

A pushchair or pram should not only be safe and comfortable for your child, but also have ample storage space for all the essentials. Look for models with a large basket to hold all of the baby's items like spare clothes as well as changing equipment, water bottles, and snacks. Some models also have a parent or child's compartment which is ideal for storing all your personal things. If you're looking for a pram with even more storage consider a convertible model that has different configurations. The extra space is crucial especially if you want to take your child on long walks or leave home.

Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is the ability to maneuver. Choose swivels wheels to navigate through narrow passageways with ease. Also look for locking brakes with a quick stopping power. If you're looking at an ultra-lightweight model, make sure it comes with the correct suspension system and foldable pushchair dimensions for easy storage and transport. If you're looking for something more robust for off-road use, choose a model that has sturdy, all-terrain tires that can be able to handle the rougher terrain.

The main difference between a pram and pushchair is that a pram provides a lie-flat sleeping position for infants, whereas the pushchair is better suitable for older infants and toddlers who are able to sit up on their own. Some prams can be converted into pushchairs, by removing the bassinet and replacing it with an adult seat. Other models like the Bababing Raffi Complete bundle can transform into a carrycot or car seat.

If you are unsure about which pushchair or pram to select look up online reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations. If you are able, test-drive a few options before making your choice to get an impression of how they feel, how they fold, and how heavy they are. Consider a convertible car, that can be used by one or two kids. This will save you money as you don't have to purchase a new set of wheels each time your child grows.